Martial Arts Worlds - Chapter 148: The Treasure

A Lovecraft- inspired darker, grittier One piece fanfic. A fanfic based on emotion and madness. A fanfic not for the faint hearted.----------------Regret. I have been drowning in it for far too long. I’ve regretted every choice I’ve made, every mistake I’ve carried, every moment of my past. I’ve regretted the present I live, the path I walk. Even my future, uncertain as it may be, has been tainted by regret.But not anymore. I refuse to live under its shadow. Yet, I know the truth—I don’t have the power to escape it completely.Am I not like a flicker of flame? So fragile, so fleeting—one puff, and I’m gone.Regret has burdened me, weighed me down to make me climb the towering wall of greatness. But I press on.It was all I could do. All I ever wanted to do.

In this world, there are people who are born to suffer. They have no home, no children, no relatives, and even die tragically at the end, just like Qin Xiangnuan, who carried her burdens alone. In her thirties, she is just a flower that bloomed only to wither in her declining years, and she also has nothing.There are also those who are born to enjoy blessings, possessing wealth, beauty, a capable husband, and smart, beautiful children, yet they still take someone else's life, just like Qin Xiangmei. Though being biological sisters, she plotted against her sister from childhood until her death.If it weren't for rebirth, Qin Xiangnuan would never have known that her half-sister, Qin Xiangmei, not only took away her father and her elder brother's life but also the only keepsake her mother had left for her, and even a tremendous opportunity.

Jannah is a Countess in the Starlian Kingdom. She's known for her achievements in the battlefield, mercilessly ending her enemies and protecting her people.All for the peace and glory of the kingdom.“Run! They're swarming all over the place!”“Just leave! I already got bitten...!”“I can't leave without you!”However, all the blood sheds in the battlefield became useless when an outbreak befell the kingdom.Doom and betrayal hang in the air, following her like the plague.The apocalypse forced her to shed blood once again, under the guise of protecting her loved ones.Although, something happened that wasn't supposed to happen on her second run in life.[Initializing.....][System activated!][System scanning player's status...][Please enter your name:_____]“What is this thing in front of me? This thing didn't appear in my first life!”With chaos going around her, Jannah started her journey with a newfound thing called “system” to protect her people from the zombies.If you're not a fan of the list below then please click away.— Turtle progression.— Gore.— Same-sex relationships.— Questionable life choices (by MC).

I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay Down My Gun is a Korean web novel that immerses readers in a complex world where the protagonist, after returning from another realm, faces challenges that prevent them from abandoning their role as a warrior. The story intricately weaves elements of fantasy and sci-fi with a strong psychological undercurrent, exploring themes of identity and duty. In this gripping narrative, the protagonist is forced to confront the harsh realities of war and survival in a world that seems familiar yet is fraught with new dangers. Despite having the chance to return to a peaceful life, the protagonist finds themselves unable to lay down their weapon, suggesting a deep internal conflict and a sense of responsibility towards the battles they must still face​​​​. Why Read It: **1. A Unique Blend of Genres: The novel skillfully combines elements of action, adventure, fantasy, and mecha, offering a refreshing take on the traditional isekai (another world) genre. The mecha and sci-fi components add a layer of technological intrigue, making it appealing to fans of futuristic storytelling​​. **2. Psychological Depth: At its core, the story delves into the psychological struggles of its protagonist. The exploration of identity, post-war trauma, and the moral dilemmas of warfare provides depth and complexity, making it more than just a typical action narrative. This focus on character development and internal conflict resonates with readers who appreciate stories with emotional and psychological substance​​. **3. Rich World-Building: The novel is known for its expansive world-building, which blends modern-day elements with fantastical and sci-fi settings. The detailed environment and intricate plotlines create a captivating backdrop for the protagonist’s journey, engaging readers with its vivid and immersive universe​​​​. **4. Engaging Plot: With over 651 chapters and counting, the novel offers an extensive and engaging storyline that keeps readers hooked. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists, strategic battles, and complex character interactions, ensuring that there is never a dull moment​​. Reception and Popularity: I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay Down My Gun has gained a substantial following among fans of Korean web novels. Its blend of action, fantasy, and psychological themes appeals to a wide audience, from those who enjoy fast-paced adventures to those who prefer more introspective tales. Although still ongoing, the novel has already completed its first part and several side stories, providing a satisfying yet evolving reading experience​​. Conclusion: This novel is a must-read for fans of isekai stories who are looking for something with more depth and complexity. Its exploration of post-war realities and the psychological impact of conflict offers a thought-provoking take on the genre. Whether you're drawn to epic battles, intricate plots, or character-driven narratives, I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay Down My Gun promises an unforgettable literary journey.